MCR Services Backs M10 ‘Lost Boys’ Mentoring Scheme

MCR Services has joined forces with M10 to support a North East mentoring initiative aimed at helping teenage boys build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workplace.

The Northumberland firm is backing M10’s Boys’ Network, a ten-month mentoring programme that pairs young men aged 16 and 17 with male professionals for monthly one-to-one online sessions.

In addition to enrolling several of its male employees as mentors, the company also offered two 15-year-old students from Cramlington Learning Village hands-on work experience.

Rhys and Kenzie were supervised by Matthew Fretwell, who began his career as an 18-year-old apprentice and is now production manager at MCR and warehouse manager at Bolam Group sister company Moody Logistics and Storage.

Matthew said: “Both lads settled in really well and grew in confidence. They were enthusiastic, willing to learn, and already showing signs of development, not just in their understanding of the job, but in how they carry themselves. It was encouraging to see them take this opportunity seriously and begin to grasp what the world of work is all about.”

During their placement, the students gained insight into key operational areas across both companies, helping them understand different roles, responsibilities and potential future pathways.

Rhys described the experience as “a gamechanger,” adding: “It made things fit into place and has helped teach me the logistics, strategies and discipline of working in the real world.”

Kenzie, who worked alongside production team leader Ethan Elliott, added: “I liked the hands-on stuff. Thank you for the opportunity.”

The Boys’ Network is a core part of M10’s work, but the South Shields-based charity delivers a wide range of programmes designed to support young people from all backgrounds.

Cramlington-headquartered MCR, which provides contract packing, quality inspection, order fulfilment, returns handling and rework services, chose to support the initiative in response to concerns highlighted in The Lost Boys report published by Centre for Social Justice. The report warns of a growing crisis facing young men in education, employment, crime, mental health and family life. M10 contributed to the study, sharing its frontline insights.

Caroline Moody, group managing director, said: “Giving young people a chance to experience the workplace and build a connection with someone who believes in them can be genuinely life changing. There’s a real need right now to invest in the next generation, particularly young men who are at risk of falling behind. By supporting M10 and initiatives like The Boys’ Network, we hope to play a small part in helping them realise their potential and feel confident about their future.”